Egg salad is a timeless classic that makes for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal. Whether served as a sandwich, on crackers, or enjoyed on its own, this creamy and flavorful dish never disappoints. It’s the perfect combination of simplicity and taste, making it a go-to recipe for many.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This egg salad recipe is incredibly simple yet packed with flavor. You only need a handful of basic ingredients to create a creamy, tangy, and slightly crunchy dish.
The combination of smooth mayonnaise, a touch of mustard, and finely diced celery adds the perfect texture and taste. Plus, it’s high in protein, making it a nutritious and filling option for lunch or a light snack.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy egg salad in multiple ways — spread it on toast, stuff it into a sandwich, scoop it with crackers, or even serve it over a fresh bed of greens.
It’s also perfect for meal prep, as it stays fresh in the refrigerator for a few days. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a picnic dish, or a satisfying snack, this recipe will never let you down.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious egg salad, gather the following simple ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for a slight tang)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil the Eggs
Fill a medium-sized pot with water and bring it to a boil. Carefully place the eggs into the boiling water and let them cook for about 10–12 minutes. This cooking time ensures that the yolks are fully set without becoming overly dry.
2. Cool and Peel the Eggs
Once the eggs are done cooking, transfer them immediately to an ice bath or run them under cold water for a few minutes. Cooling them quickly helps stop the cooking process and makes peeling much easier. Once they are cool enough to handle, gently peel off the shells.
3. Chop the Eggs
Use a knife or an egg slicer to chop the eggs into small, bite-sized pieces. If you prefer a smoother texture, mash them slightly with a fork. For a chunkier egg salad, keep the pieces larger.
4. Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly coated. The mayo adds a creamy consistency, while the mustard gives the salad a mild tang.
5. Add Texture and Flavor
Mix in the finely chopped celery, chives, and lemon juice if using. The celery provides a slight crunch, while chives add a fresh and mild onion flavor. Lemon juice enhances the overall taste by adding a subtle brightness. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Your egg salad is now ready to be served! Enjoy it in different ways:
- Spread it on toasted bread for a classic egg salad sandwich.
- Serve it with crackers for a light and delicious snack.
- Use it as a filling for lettuce wraps if you prefer a low-carb option.
- Add it to a salad bowl for a protein-packed meal.
Tips for the Best Egg Salad
- Use fresh eggs for the best flavor and texture.
- For easier peeling, add a teaspoon of vinegar to the boiling water.
- Adjust the mayo and mustard to suit your taste preference.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Experiment with add-ins, like diced pickles, red onion, or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra burst of flavor.
Variations to Try
If you want to change things up, here are a few fun variations to try:
- Avocado Egg Salad — Replace some of the mayo with mashed avocado for a creamy, nutrient-packed twist.
- Spicy Egg Salad — Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Greek Yogurt Egg Salad — Swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to make a lighter version with a tangy flavor.
- Bacon Egg Salad — Mix in some crispy, crumbled bacon for a smoky crunch.
Egg salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that never goes out of style. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly versatile, and always satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a weekday lunch, a picnic, or a meal prep option, this easy egg salad recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen!
